YouTube Removes Billions of Views Linked to AI Spam Networks

YouTube has removed content accounting for more than 4.7 billion lifetime views after taking action against a network of channels identified as producing low-quality, automated videos commonly described as “AI slop.”

According to a recent report by Kapwing, an online video editing platform, at least 16 of the 100 most subscribed AI-driven channels flagged in a November 2025 study are no longer active on YouTube. Some channels were fully terminated, while others remain listed but with all uploaded videos removed.

Kapwing’s updated findings show that the removed channels collectively amassed over 35 million subscribers and generated approximately $10 million in annual earnings before enforcement action was taken. The combined reach of these channels totaled roughly 4.7 billion views over their lifetime.

Among the affected accounts were CuentosFacianantes, a channel known for low-quality Dragon Ball-themed videos that alone recorded more than 5.9 million views and earned an estimated $2.6 million, as well as Imperiodejesus and Super Cat League, which ranked among the most subscribed AI-content channels identified in the report.

While YouTube has not publicly detailed the technical criteria behind the removals, Kapwing’s analysis suggests the platform is relying on existing spam and clickbait detection systems to identify mass-produced, repetitive AI content.

Earlier in January, Neal Mohan, CEO of YouTube, acknowledged the growing challenge posed by low-quality AI material. In a blog post, he stated that the company is expanding systems already used to curb spam and repetitive content in order to limit the spread of such videos.

Despite the enforcement actions, YouTube continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence. New features under development include AI-assisted editing tools, AI-generated Shorts content, and experimental tools that transform spoken dialogue into music. Parent company Google has also confirmed that its Gemini AI system will underpin Apple’s upcoming upgraded version of Siri.

The latest removals signal a tightening of platform controls, even as AI-powered creation tools continue to expand across YouTube’s ecosystem.